New Zealand opens two work visa routes for Indian citizens

News report · Checked 21 October 2026.

New Zealand opened two employment routes for Indian citizens on 20 October 2026 as its free trade agreement with India entered into force. The India Skilled Work Visa and India Iconic Work Visa are now available, subject to their detailed eligibility rules. Immigration New Zealand confirms the launch in its announcement of the India–New Zealand visa commitments.

Which route fits the job?

The India Skilled Work Visa covers specified jobs in technology, engineering, construction management, teaching, nursing and physiotherapy. Up to 4,400 people may hold this visa at any one time. Applicants need a qualifying full-time offer from an accredited employer, the required qualifications or professional registration, and acceptable English-language evidence. First applications must be made from outside New Zealand.

The India Iconic Work Visa has a separate ceiling of 600 holders and covers yoga instructors, Indian chefs, music teachers and specified AYUSH practitioners. Its occupation-specific training and experience requirements matter: having a broadly related job title is not sufficient. Both pages list a starting application cost of NZD 1,355 and stays of up to three years.

Check the restrictions before accepting an offer

These are employer-linked temporary visas. The work, employer and location recorded on the visa determine what the holder may do. A partner or dependent child cannot be included, and family members do not gain visa eligibility simply through this relationship. The treaty announcement also says these routes do not provide a pathway to residence.

For applicants, the useful first step is to compare the actual job description against the official occupation list, then check the employer’s accreditation and the documentary requirements for that occupation. Ask for a complete written offer showing hours, pay, location and duties. Keep the recruitment conversation and offer in your own records.

The published numbers are limits on holders present at a time, rather than a promise that every qualified applicant will receive a place. Availability, evidence and the individual application still matter. Anyone assessing a move with family should resolve each person’s independent immigration route before making irreversible relocation commitments.